FMCSR 178.342-1: Q&A for Drivers & Fleet Managers

No. Across our 13 million inspection records, 178.342-1 has a 0.0% out-of-service rate. Of the 1 citation on record for this code in our database, the vehicle was not placed out of service. This is significantly lower than the 31.4% average out-of-service rate across all FMCSR codes, making this one of the least severe violations you can receive.

178.342-1 is among the least serious hazmat-related citations. Our records show peer codes in the same category carry much higher out-of-service rates: General loading/unloading hazmat violations (177.834A-HMC) have a 99.2% OOS rate with 3,954 citations, and placard violations (177.817(a)) have a 97.9% OOS rate. By contrast, 178.342-1 ranks #2796 of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume and has never resulted in an out-of-service placement.

No, this is a rare citation. Our inspection database contains only 1 all-time citation for 178.342-1, with 0 citations in the last 12 months and 0 in the last 90 days. This makes it one of the least-cited hazmat codes in our records, suggesting either strict compliance across the industry or limited applicability of the regulation.

First, review the specific deficiency noted by the inspector—document photos and details from the inspection report. Second, consult your carrier's hazmat compliance team or a DOT safety manager to understand the exact requirement you didn't meet. Third, correct the issue before your next trip and keep records of the remediation. Finally, if you believe the citation was issued in error, you have the right to contest it through FMCSA's DataQs system within 90 days of the roadside inspection.

Yes. FMCSA's DataQs (Database Quality System) allows drivers and carriers to challenge roadside inspection findings within 90 days. For 178.342-1, you would typically contest by submitting evidence that contradicts the inspector's finding—such as documentation of proper hazmat procedures or photographic proof that the regulation was met. The FMCSA reviews your submission and either upholds or removes the citation from your record.

Our records show 1 all-time citation for 178.342-1, attributed to KUHNLE BROTHERS INC (USDOT 120682). The vehicle cited was a PETERBILT and a STAR TANK unit. Because citation volume is so low, no geographic pattern emerges from our database. This violation is extremely uncommon in roadside enforcement.

While urgent, 178.342-1 is lower-priority than many other violations because it does not trigger immediate out-of-service placement (0.0% OOS rate). However, hazmat compliance is always serious—violations can lead to fines, CSA safety rating impact, and carrier liability. Address the specific deficiency identified in your citation before resuming hazmat operations. The rarity of this citation (0 in the last 90 days) suggests it may involve a narrow, specific requirement; work with your carrier to ensure full understanding.

Both. FMCSA's Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) system records violations at both the driver and carrier level. A 178.342-1 citation will appear on your carrier's safety record, which can affect the company's CSA scores and insurability. It may also be recorded to your personal driver record depending on whether the violation was driver-caused or vehicle/company-caused. Clarify the root cause with your carrier to understand the full impact.